2010 Subaru Forester review

In its first full redesign since the 2003 model year, the Subaru Forester has moved closer to the mainstream than some fans might have hoped it would. The old model's boxy charm has been toned down, and what's left is a compact SUV whose driving dynamics are on par with some of the nimbler players in this segment. A few Forester diehards may cry foul, but I suspect the changes will widen the car's appeal to the market in general. The SUV remains as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions; click here to see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 model. Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system is standard. I drove a number of configurations both on- and off-road at a press event in Southern California.

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Center ventilators
1) Open 2) Close Move the tab to adjust the flow direction. To open the ventilator, turn the center grille open/close wheel to the “” position. To close it, turn the wheel to the “” position ...

Hill start assist warning light (MT models)
While the engine is rotating, if there are any malfunctions in the Hill start assist system, the light will illuminate. When the Hill start assist warning light illuminates, have the ve ...

Driver’s seat
1) Seat position forward/backward control switch To adjust the seat forward or backward, move the control switch forward or backward. During forward/backward adjustment of the seat, you cannot ad ...